15 Rural Entrepreneurs Tell Their Stories!

PRAXIS

15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories!

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 1 21-12-2006 20:07:02 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Preface In the publication “15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories” the Provinciale Landbouw-kamer (Provincial Agricultural Chamber) of East-Flanders, Department Agriculture and Countryside lets rural entrepreneurs of the wide range of agricultural and horticultural businesses in East-Flanders, Belgium tell their stories. Starting from an economic point of view these managers talk passionately about their company or product.

This publication is the East-Flemish version of the European Interreg IIIC project “PRAXIS: Making rural entrepreneurship work”.

PRAXIS aims at comparing strategies for rural policy in the various regions of the European Union. Pilot projects to stimulate the rural entrepreneurship have been set up, e.g. micro-enterprise start-ups in the countryside, looking at innovation and supporting diversiﬁ cation – differentiation in agriculture and horticulture.

In addition to this publication, a forum will be organized in 2007, where rural entrepreneurs will receive support and information in the domain of communication and innovation in view of developing their product or drawing up their business planning.

In this publication we can only introduce a limited number of entrepreneurs. Through the provincial economical, agricultural and rural policy we want to create a liveable countryside, a pleasant place to live and to work in, to spend your time off and with respect for the environment and the countryside.

We hope that when reading this publication you will be tempted to undertake creative and innovative actions in the countryside.

Alexander Vercamer Member of the Provincial Executive in charge of Agriculture & Countryside

Marc De Buck Member of the Provincial Executive in charge of External Relations

January 2007

PRAXIS is a Europees Interreg IIIC project with the following partners: Essex County Council (UK), East of England Regional Assembly (UK), East of England Development Agency (UK), Business Link for Essex (UK), Writtle College (UK), Provincie Oost-Vlaanderen(BE), Provincie West-Vlaanderen (BE), Technological Institute of Aragon (ES), Picardy Regional Council (FR), Heraklion Development Agency (GR), Province of Mantua (IT), Province of South Holland (NL), Opolskie Voivodeship (PL), Pomeranian Association of Rural Municipalities (PL), Arad County Council (RO).

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 2 21-12-2006 20:07:22 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Table of contents

Table of contents 3

Higher revenues, lower expenses - Pomidory bvba 4

Wind energy: farmer harvests electricity - Wase Wind cvba 6

The Battle for the Azalea. A survival strategy. - Dhaese A.&R. bvba 8

A green gateway to the future - Denis-Plants bvba 10

Staying at the Boskapelhoeve: international prestige - Boskapelhoeve 12

From cow to milk to farm ice cream. Learning on a farm. - De Vierhoekhoeve 14

The inspiring nature - De Volle Maan 16

A cabinet with milk - Marnix Alexander and Tonia Dhont 18

A Prize for Southern tomatoes… from Nevele! - NV Vlaemynck J & Zn 20

A watercress aperitif to your health! - Cressana bvba 22

Donkey farm De Hippomaan: Unique in Flanders! - De Hippomaan 24

Enjoying your strawberry ice-cream - De Valleihoeve 26

Investing in niche markets and countryside development - Hoeve Engelendael 28

Sheep grazing on the banks of the river Scheldt - Herman Verberckmoes 30

Mmm… delicious Meetjesland - Mmm...eetjesland cvba 32

Information 34

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 3 21-12-2006 21:28:15 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Pomidory bvba Higher revenues, lower expenses

SINT-GILLIS-WAAS – ON THE TOMATO FARM POMIDORY, RATIONAL ENERGY CONSUMPTION ORIGINATED A SECOND LINE OF BUSINESS. PRODUCING ITS OWN ENERGY IS AN EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY TO ACHIEVE HIGHER REVENUES AND LOWER EXPENSES. THE COMBINED HEAT AND POWER (CHP) SYSTEM USES NATURAL GAS TO GENERATE HEAT, ELECTRICITY AND CARBON DIOXIDE. ALTHOUGH THE TECHNIQUE AND THE ADVANTAGES HAVE BEEN KNOWN FOR YEARS, THE HORTICULTURE SECTOR DID NOT MAKE MUCH USE OF IT. THE RIGHT SIZE AND THE RIGHT PARTNER ARE IMPORTANT PRIOR CONDITIONS.

ith the rising energy prices the heat produced. In order to avoid energy was needed. This meant a minimum Wgreenhouse farmers have to take losses due to transport, the installation cultivation area and a minimum heating additional cost-reducing measures. En- is set up on the site where the heat is need. Depending on these two parame- ergy costs already take up a large part needed for. ters, you can start combining. The lower of the total production costs. For tomato When Geert wanted to renovate and ex- limit for cultivating fruiting vegetables grower Geert De Breuck the combined pand his business, the combined heat is one and a half hectare. We are grow- heat and power (CHP) system seemed and power system seemed to be a re- ing tomatoes on an area of 27.500 m2, to be what he was looking for. It is a alistic choice. But that was easier said so that was OK. Then making technical cost-effective technique used to gen- than done … choices and sound arrangements with erate electricity and heat at the same the partners, is quite time-consuming, time. Compared with producing heat Minimum heat required but is extremely important to bring the and electricity separately, this system Although the principle of the CHP sys- project to a favourable conclusion. And realizes an energy savings of more than tem is well-known, Geert had to meet last but not least, the system produces 25 percent. Traditional energy producing many challenges. “For starters, to make energy which has to be sold on the mar- systems do not (effi ciently) utilize the the installation profi table, suffi cient heat ket on strict conditions.”

The construction and exploitation of the combined heat and power system are based on a rather unusual cooperation.

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 4 21-12-2006 20:07:23 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Pomidory bvba

If all challenges are met at the same time, a combined heat and power system is cost-effective.

Operating the generator set is still a hard time and the plants need the generated are winners. And ﬁ nally we can now buy

job. “Even with a perfectly operating CO2. The heat produced is then stored in the electricity at a favourable price.” CHP installation. An effi cient production a large buffer water tank of 850.000 li- Pomidory strives for sustainability, as requires our constant attention. Due to tres and used at night to keep the correct you can see in all the aspects of their op- the strict terms of contract, the loss of temperature. During the winter heating erational plan. Examples are the care for heat or unexpected fl uctuations in the needs are enormous and the installation employees, the disinfection and reuse electricity supply cost heaps of money.” runs continuously. And in extreme cir- of sprinkling water and the implementa- During the summer there is mainly day- cumstances a conventional natural gas tion of the landscape management plan time production; during the winter we burner connected to the buffer tank can in order to integrate the company in the use the installation during daytime and at generate additional heat.” countryside. night as well. “During the summer the electricity prices are higher during day- Sustainable effi ciency “It cost us quite some energy to fi nd the When you manage to meet all challenges proper solution. This is a relatively un- The construction and exploitation of simultaneously, a CHP system is a cost- known cooperative trade system in the the CHP system are based on a rath- effective solution. The tomato grower agricultural and horticultural sector. Find- er unusual cooperation. It involved an gets more heat for the same price.. ing the right partners, putting your trust in investment of € 1.20 million. Pomi- “I estimate about 10 % more. That is be- them, fi nalizing the technical designs… It dory cooperated with the American cause the partner can negotiate a ‘better” all costs a lot of trouble, time and money. Power Generation Constructor Cum- [lower] price of natural gas thanks to the But the result is good. The agreement mins. That company owns [83%] of bulk discount and because the effi ciency applies for fi fteen years, which assures the installation with 1500 kW electric of heat production generated by the CHP a stable cooperation. The tomato grower power and it is also responsible for system is higher.” Other advantages are can control the expenses better and the maintaining the installation and pur- the fl ue gasses. These are treated by revenues are spread… and also the envi- chasing the natural gas. Pomidory means of a catalyst. “Per unit of heat pro- ronment benefi ts from it. That’s perfect, invested [17%], purchases the heat duced there is twice as much CO2 avail- isn’t it?” production and the CO2 and a lim- able for the plants. This stimulates their ited share of the generated electric- growth and increases the production. So Pomidory bvba ity. The rest of the electricity is sold: the main part is used by the plants. The Geert and Nancy De Breuck the profi ts are divided amongst the possibility to use CO2 makes the cogen- Hoogstraat 10 investors. eration systems even more interesting. 9170 Sint-Gillis-Waas, Belgium Here both the economy and the ecology [email protected]

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 5 21-12-2006 20:07:40 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Wase Wind cvba Wind energy: farmer harvests electricity

TEMSE – WIND ENERGY IS A PURE ENERGY SOURCE, WHICH DOES NOT LEAVE ANY RESIDUAL CURRENTS IN OUR ENVIRONMENT. AND WIND IS ONE OF THE FEW OWN ENERGY SOURCES FLANDERS ABOUNDS IN. FARMER GEERT DE ROOVER WAS FULLY AWARE OF THIS AND AS HE WAS LOOKING FOR ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES FOR HIS OWN COMPANY, WIND TURBINES SEEMED TO BE THE PERFECT OPTION.

In his search for alternative energy for his own company, wind turbines seemed to be the perfect option.

eert and his wife own in the ity. But Geert could not let go of the society with limited responsibility. GWaasland, a region in the province idea and together with some youth Due to this double structure the wind of East-Flanders a diary and pig farm. friends they dreamt of a wind turbine turbine project can reach a wider au- Inspired by the example of a large park. They started the cooperative soci- dience. Geert explains: “Fortech con- distributor the family looked for an al- ety “Wase Wind cvba”. structed and exploits the wind turbines ternative energy supply for their farm. in Kruibeke. Through Wase Wind the The ﬁ rst option was to build a small A double structure members can participate in the wind installation with a capacity of 600 kW. In 2000 the project really got started energy project and reap the ﬁ nancial There soon appeared to be a problem thanks to the establishment of Fortech, harvest of the project. The members of space. Furthermore, the Flemish a young company supported by inves- using the generated energy are mainly energy policy aims at the clustering of tors, who provide for the technical farms situated in the Waasland, but energy parks and the companies are support of the project. One year later also private persons and SME.” Wase obliged to purchase part of the electric- Wase Wind is founded, a cooperative Wind cvba invested by means of a sub-

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 6 21-12-2006 20:07:55 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Wase Wind cvba

ordinated loan in the project, a fi nanc- of the Waasland, so it a great place to ing technique the bank considers to be catch wind.” own funds of the company. They are located in agricultural area, By the name of Braemland the con- but they try to interfere as little as struction of the wind turbine park possible with the existing agricultural starts at the end of 2004. Three wind activities. The locations were chosen turbines, of the 1.5 – 2.5 MW class, will so that they can be reached using the be located south of the motorway E17 existing roads. The base for the wind in the district of Kruibeke. Since April turbine only occupies 250 m2 and there 2005 they produce energy. The energy is an access road of about 100 meters output calculations expect a yearly from the road till the foot of the wind production of 11.500.000 kWh of wind turbines. The surrounding grounds re- current, which would be suffi cient for main agricultural territory and they are the private consumption of half the mu- available for farming. nicipality. In a second phase, planned Not only agriculture, but also habitation for 2007, wind turbines will be located is an important factor when choosing north of the same motorway in the dis- the location. The people living in the trict of Beveren. neighbourhood should not have a lot of trouble with noise or cast shadow. Many limiting conditions “Every wind turbine is located at least In a densely populated area as Flan- 250 meters away from a house. Accord- ders, many elements have to be taken ing to noise pollution estimates, even into account when choosing a location. the traffi c at night drowns the noise “First of all the location has to meet the of the wind turbines. Calculations con- requirements set by urban and region- cerning the cast shadow effect point al planning. An important condition is out that the neighbours will barely be the clustering of wind turbines with an troubled: only when the wind and the existing line infrastructure, motorway, sunshine come from the same or op- canal or railway. The Flemish authori- posite directions and the wings turn ties staked out a zone alongside the before the sun, a cast shadow effect turn a free good [wind] into something motorway E17 in Kruibeke - Beveren. might occur. This nuisance mainly oc- valuable [electricity].” That’s why he This also was one of the highest places curs in the morning and in the evening explores for his own company the pos- during spring or autumn, when the sun sibilities of photovoltaic cells. And he is in a low position.” also keeps close track of the research In Flanders there is only a very lim- And fi nally the choice has to be compat- in the domain of combustion and fer- ited use of wind energy, as opposed ible with ecological values and aviation mentation of biomass. The farmer har- to countries such as Germany, the safety aspects. When selecting the par- vests electricity! Netherlands and Denmark, where cels, the directives on the conservation currently more than ten percent is of wild birds (along the river Scheldt), Wase Wind cvba generated by renewable sources. In the protection of habitats (around the Grote Kouterstraat 116 bus 2 Flanders they mainly use wind tur- forts) or other nature reserves are to be 9120 Vrasene, Belgium bines form the 1.5 tot 2.5 MW class. strictly observed. +32 (0)3 707 19 01 Depending on the height of axis and www.wasewind.be average wind speeds a turbine gen- Green energy [email protected] erates between 2.500.000 kWh en The cooperative society Wase Wind 5.000.000 kWh a year. Heights of is fi rst of all meant for the agricultural axis of 100 m and more are possi- sector, but the wind is blowing for eve- ble in order to compensate for loss ryone. “The benefi ts for the participat- of energy due to obstacles in the ing farmers are obvious. The block of countryside. In the meanwhile the shares yields an annual dividend, the fi rst wind turbines with a capacity of shareholder can buy electricity cheaply 4,5 and 5,0 MW are running on trial. at a fi xed price and the farmer receives They have rotor diameters of more recompense for the building and plant- than 100 meters and they are mainly ing rights and for the damage to the intended to be built in the sea. All crop due to reduced light.” For Geert relevant information can be found on not only the fi nancial proceeds are im- the website. portant, but also the ethical and ecological aspects. “It gives a great feeling to

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 7 21-12-2006 20:08:00 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Dhaese A.&R. bvba

Azaleas are mainly sold through export companies to other countries, e.g. the Netherlands, France, Italy, Germany, Denmark and even China. The Battle for the Azalea. A survival strategy.

OOSTEEKLO – THE EAST-FLEMISH REGION AROUND THE CITY OF GHENT IS THE CENTRE OF AN INTERNATIONAL ORNAMENTAL PLANTS MARKET. HOW CAN ONE BE COMPETITIVE AND AT THE SAME TIME OFFER A PRODUCT OF SUPERIOR QUALITY? DHAESE A.&R. BVBA, SPECIALIZED IN AZALEAS, MANAGED TO KEEP ITS STRONG POSITION THANKS TO INVESTMENTS IN CULTURE CHANGES AND IN ADVANCED MECHANIZATION. THEIR CARE FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND THEIR FRIENDLY PROGRAMME FOR VISITORS CONTRIBUTE TO THE POSITIVE IMAGE OF THE ORNAMENTAL PLANT BUSINESS.

he company carries on a three-gen- Successful growth belt the plant are brought in and out of Teration family tradition. In 1938 the Hard work is not enough to guarantee the building. It is quite obvious: without grandfather started to cultivate azaleas in success. A future-oriented vision is what these investments we would never have Doornzele. Since it was impossible to ex- is needed if one wants to continue to be been able to increase our production and pand the business there, father Arsène in business. At Dhaese they knew that this would have been the end. Mechani- moved the company 1982 to Oosteeklo. the company’s future had to be one of Since 1990 his son Rik is also active in growth, of expansion without increasing the company. He graduated at the horti- labour force. Mechanization could lead to cultural college and married a ﬂ orist. To- a new and perfect organization. gether with father Arsène they form the Rik explains: “Mechanization was car- three-man workforce on a territory of 15 ried out in a well thought out way, with 000 m2 of greenhouses and 18 000 m2 of a constructor who designed the machine outdoor cultivation. They are the driving tailored to the needs of our company. force of an integrated company, which Since 1990 we went from 20 m to 400 cultivates azaleas and they introduced a m of conveyor belts and we have bought new organizational structure by mechani- various types of machines to make the zation and which has an eye for the envi- work easier. Trimming and potting is now Before the winter the plants are brought inside using the ronment and education. done by machines and via the conveyor conveyor belt.

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 8 21-12-2006 20:08:11 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Dhaese A.&R. bvba

The machines used for cutting and potting the plants. hey consider education to be very important for the good image of the ornamental plant cultivation.

zation is now the strength of our com- cess water via a gutter to a tank. In order for themselves how things are going in pany.” to avoid the spreading of germs, this re- a real company. And of course it is nice In order to keep production costs low, cycled water is purifi ed. This is done in publicity for our company, but we also we did not only need an optimum organi- a water treatment plant with a slow bio- hope to contribute to the good image of zation of labour, but we equally had to logical sand fi lter, which was purchased the ornamental plant business.” reduce the cultivation time. That is why in 2004. So they created a closed culti- Schools can come on their own initiative in the nineties the company changed its vation system with a minimum negative or they can visit us through Platteland- cultivation manner: they switched from effect for the environment. The working sklassen vzw. Other interested groups grafts to cuttings. In the past they graft- of the sand fi lter is checked by the Trial are also welcome. Several times already ed the varieties on the rootstock, now Centre for Ornamental Plant Cultivation. Dhaese A.&R. bvba has been one of the they pot the cutting directly, four differ- participating companies on Op de Sier- ent cuttings in one pot. Where they used Learning on a real company toer (the yearly open day for ornamental to need three years to cultivate a plant As he himself graduated at the horticul- plant businesses, organized by the Prov- ready for the market, they now only need tural college, Rik knows how important ince of East-Flanders). two years. it is to see a concrete example of the theory. And so he opens his doors for Dhaese A.&R. bvba A closed system schools. “We have worked out an edu- Ertveldesteenweg 141a Another important point of Dhaese A.&R. cational programme and my wife gives 9968 Oosteeklo - Assenede, Belgium are the investments in sustainable devel- guided tours. The children can learn +32 (0)473 61 91 22 opment. A couple of years ago the com- about the culture of azaleas and sustain- [email protected] pany changed form classic cultivation to able consumption of water. They can see a more environment-friendly container culture. It is a system that is becoming quite common. Rik explains: “Container cultivation means that the azaleas are cultivated in sheltered soil. The soil is covered with a recyclable plastic fi lm, then a moisturizing mat and on top of it protecting landscapers cloth. Before, in outdoor cultivation large quantities of water and fertilizers were being lost between the plants and watering the plants every day lead to an increased growth of weeds. Now when sprinkling the plants, water and fertilizers stay longer in the cir- cuit and we need less herbicide..” The company is also specialized in sustainable water consumption. An azalea farm needs a lot of water, so they collect the rainwater. They optimized the use of

irrigation water by reusing it. In container Rik makes the plants ready to be sold, they are transported Thanks to container cultivation and water recycling there is a cultivation it is possible to lead the ex- on a conveyor belt. closed system. Germs are eliminated by means of a sand ﬁ lter.

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 9 21-12-2006 20:08:31 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Denis-Plants bvba

A green gateway to the future

BEERVELDE – QUALITY AND SERVICE ARE OF PARAMOUNT IMPORTANCE FOR DENIS-PLANTS. TO REALIZE THIS IN THEIR THIRTY YEARS OF EXISTENCE, MANAGER RÉNE DENIS AND HIS WIFE SOLANGE DECLERCQ HAVE DEVELOPED A REMARKABLE STRATEGY. NOT DOING WHAT THE OTHERS IN THE SECTOR DO, BUT OPTING LOGICALLY FOR INNOVATION IN THE DOMAIN OF PRODUCTS, PROCESS AND CHAIN.

enis-Plants is a company involved in approach of market development in the tings or slips of a wide variety of cultures, Dhardening off plants. It has a wide Far East? including Bromelia Philodendron, Ficus, range of young fl owering and non-fl ow- and Maranta were taken for the own pro- ering greenhouse plants. A traditional From a traditional business to an duction. Selling the products was done by business, so it seems. But what do you exclusive fl oriculture business the company itself. Shortly afterward they think about the extensive selection of After taking over the family business in changed to a monoculture of Scheffl era, exclusive cultivars, about the own plant 1975, Denis-Plants bvba was established. a new houseplant at that time and gradu- breeding centre for tissue culture, the It was a typical and traditional fl ower grow- ally propagation became more and more advanced technology and the stubborn ing business in the region of Ghent. Cut- important. Young Scheffl era cuttings were

The company grows steadily and each expansion involves new technology. Every year they cultivate about 7 million of young plants, which is about 130.000 a week.

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 10 21-12-2006 20:09:34 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Denis-Plants bvba

Production increased considerably thanks to the introduction of a computer-controlled camera- Durability through innovation is an explicit management option. sorting machine.

sold to other growers. The plant propaga- supply our own developed products and cultures of Bruvitro. That is how they tion company became a reality. other patent varieties. It equally allows us manage to keep the technology and the Ten years later a new greenhouse com- to harden off clones supplied to us by a plant variety rights in East-Flanders. A plex of 4000 m2 was brought into use. Air customer.” green gateway to the future. conditioning, irrigation and fertilization are The company keeps on growing and each computer-controlled. Energy-saving meas- expansion involves new technology. As Denis-Plants bvba ures (such as screen cloth and special they took part in the Vlaams Milieuplan René Denis and Solange Declercq glazing); modern cultivation techniques Sierteelt (a renowned centre for environ- Bochtenstraat 6 (including the ebb and fl ood system on mental horticulture) and as they obtained 9080 Beervelde, Belgium tables and recycling of sprinkling water) the A-label, it is now very clear that quality +32 (0)9 355 12 55 and ecological applications (such as col- is a main issue. www.denis-plants.be lection and use of rainwater) were being [email protected] introduced. Shortly afterward the fi rst Innovating chain tests for hardening off in-vitro plants were To be able to keep maximum control Durability through innovation carried out. These appeared to be very of the in-vitro tissue culture and corre- Durability through innovation is an ex- successful and this technique became sponding quality control, they started plicit management option. At the end increasingly important. René explains the Bruvitro bvba and DeniSphag. “Bruvitro of 2004, production increased consid- possibilities of the technique: “Hardening (1997) grew to be a specialized in-vitro erably thanks to the introduction of a off in-vitro plants is a vital link in the in- laboratory where every year 5 millions computer-controlled camera-sorting novation and extension of the selection of tissue plants are produced, especially machine. That’s how the company of green and fl owering pot plants. That’s Calathea, Cordyline, orchids and a range manages to increase productivity, how we are able to launch new products of perennial plants. Each customer can achieving at the same time an intrin- on the market. Based on exclusivity we have its products made to measure. sic quality improvement. The available DeniSphag (2001) is the exclusive Euro- manpower is put wherever needed in pean importer of sphagnum plates from the company. The work organization New-Zealand. The sphagnum plates are makes it possible to check for each manufactured using dried and pressed separate activity who is the person moss and they are an excellent aid for responsible, so that there is a per- hardening off young orchid plants.” manent quality control system. To do The greenhouse of Denis-Plants current- so, each step in the production proc- ly takes up 10.000 m2. Every year about ess is registered. The company also 7 millions of young plants are cultivated, endeavours to keep the production which is about 130.000 plants a week. process as environmental-friendly as “The largest part of which is exported to possible. They collect, sand fi lter and European countries, but also the markets disinfect rainwater with UV-light, recy- further away are steadily growing: China, cle it and disinfect it once again. That USA, Japan, Malaysia, Australia, New- is how they manage to reduce the use Zealand, Korea... of chemical agents and that is to the For further expansion of the Far East benefi t of humans, environment and market, a laboratory will be set up in plants. Vietnam. There they will use the tissue

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 11 21-12-2006 20:10:02 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Boskapelhoeve Staying at the Boskapelhoeve: international prestige

BUGGENHOUT – ON THE EDGE OF THE WOODS THERE IS THE BOSKAPELHOEVE. WHAT USED TO BE THE STABLES ARE NOW THE GUEST ROOMS. LIEVE DECOCK, HER HUSBAND AND HER PARENTS WELCOME A VERY DIVERSE CLIENTELE IN THE FARMHOUSE: FROM TOURISTS TO BUSINESSMEN, EVERYONE ENJOYS THE HIGH- QUALITY ACCOMMODATIONS.

eve is also a very appealing accommo- dation for business men. The quiet and remote location also means discretion, far away from the competition. Fur- thermore, Buggenhout is situated half- way between Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent. Also France, the Netherlands and Germany are within one day’s drive. Together with the excellent quality it is the ideal combination of comfort and efﬁ ciency. In the weekend the Boskapelhoeve mainly receives tourists from Belgium and the neighbouring countries. During the week especially businessmen from Japan to America are staying there. But the clientele is even more diverse: pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela or partygoers from the well-known party halls in the neighbour- The guestrooms hood come to “stay the night”.

our years ago the Boskapelhoeve Lieve’s brother runs the farm, with some Renovation and quality: Fstarted to provide guest rooms in hundred beef cows and 50 ha of ground. a never-ending mission! the countryside. Behind this idyllic idea Except for the feed for the calves, the The Boskapelhoeve originally had four there is a customer-oriented business feed for the cattle grows on their own rooms, one common kitchen for break- vision about quality improvement and ﬁ elds. With regard to the feed, the farm fast and one lounge. It soon became ob- proﬁ tability. Lieve Decock explains. is for 95 % self-supporting. vious that seven rooms were needed in Four years ago, Lieve and her husband order to keep up with the occupancy. The From model farm to guest rooms decided, together with her parents, to demand keeps growing and especially The Boskapelhoeve has a remarkable give some empty stables a different the combination business tourism/holi- past. It began as a model farm of the use. They converted the stables into day tourism requires renovations. That’s Boerenbond (a Flemish professional guest rooms, however, without chang- why Lieve occupies herself with the organization for agriculture and horticul- ing the authentic character of the farm. extension to nine rooms, a new kitch- ture) right after the First World-War. That en and a meeting room. “Although the farm was built to show the farmers how From Japan to America: combination business tourism/holiday their profession would evolve: there was a very diverse clientele tourism may require extra renovations, a fully equipped dairy farm and a large The location of the Boskapelhoeve is I do not want to abandon the idea. It is baking oven so that the people from the a real asset. Not far from the margins precisely that combination that guaran- village could come and bake their bread; of the river Scheldt and surrounded by tees us an occupancy of 60% to 70%, there was a forge for shoeing cart hors- woods and grasslands, the farm radi- which is above the Flemish average.” es and the farm could provide its own ates peace and quiet and beauty. Tour- Also the website needs to be developed electricity and water. In time, most of ists can explore the numerous walk and further. Now it exists in Dutch, French these things disappeared and tractors cycle routes and families with children and German. For the British and Ameri- took the place of farm-hands and cart discover the Flemish countryside. can guests we are now building an Eng- horses. For the same reasons the Boskapelho- lish version.

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 12 21-12-2006 20:10:26 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Boskapelhoeve

The Boskapelhoeve feels strongly about quality. They have high standards for reception, infrastructure, furniture and breakfast! Running a tourist establishment in the city is not an option for Lieve, she would surely miss the countryside.

Quality is essential for Lieve. “The bed- A third partner for Lieve is the tourist Lieve concludes: “Mutual collaboration rooms are decorated with the hint of the service sector. Together with Tourism to the beneﬁ t of all parties… that is how past but with all modern conveniences. Antwerp they created the arrangement we keep our countryside commercially Each room has an own bathroom and Stille Waters (a famous television series viable and at the same time liveable!” the television and internet connections in Flanders). But she is also on friendly see to it that our guests remain in con- terms Vlaanderen Vakantieland, Tourism Boskapelhoeve tact with the rest of the world. That is East-Flanders, vzw Plattelandstoerisme Lieve Decock extremely important for the business- in Vlaanderen, Tourism Klein Brabant, Kasteelstraat 214 men. For tourists we have bicycles at VVV Dendermonde…. These services 9255 Buggenhout, Belgium their disposal. We like our tourists to all supply interesting information and +32 (0)474 77 41 92 have a pleasant stay!” for a tourist farm it is important to be www.boskapelhoeve.be Families with children can discover the mentioned. [email protected] story behind the farm; see how the cows are fed, feed the donkeys and play with the dog and the cat… “Not every company can visualize its story for children. That is why I think that it is a good initiative that the vzw Plattelandstoeris- me in Vlaanderen introduces a new label for farms where children can take part in everyday life on a farm.”

Collaboration increases proﬁ tability For breakfast Lieve buys her products from the neighbouring farms or local es- tablishments. It is a favourable interac- tion for both parties: Lieve can offer her guests delicious regional products and the farmers have an extra client. There is also plenty of collaboration with the restaurants in the region: there are special packages where the restaurant offers diner and the Boskapelhoeve accommodations.

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 13 21-12-2006 20:10:32 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories De Vierhoekhoeve From cow to milk to farm ice cream. Learning on a farm.

GIJZENZELE – AGRICULTURAL DIVERSIFICATION FROM A SOCIAL POINT OF VIEW; THAT IS THE MOTIVE FOR THE VIERHOEKHOEVE. ASK A CHILD WHERE BREAD COMES FROM AND THERE IS LITTLE CHANCE THAT HE OR SHE WILL MENTION THE CORN FIELDS. THE FAMILY DE SUTTER WANTED TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT AND FIFTEEN YEARS AGO THEY STARTED THEIR PROJECTS. NOT A CHILDREN’S FARM BUT A REAL EDUCATIONAL FARM.

The complete family. The farm keeps the three children De Sutter more than busy and their parents advise and assist them.

he Vierhoekhoeve has in its exist- farm with pigs and cattle. In 1989 they a couple of years it is quite hard to have Tence as a family farm already under- got out of the pig farming business and a free period.” gone many important changes. Today it they renovated the farm in order to in- The whole family De Sutter works on is a mixed farm with an own farm shop crease the milk production. One year the farm. Hilde, her brother, her sister and a strong educational programme for later the empty dwellings at the other and both her parents: they all have their schools. Till December 2008 they are side of the road were for sale. That was own responsibilities. fully booked. the big turning point for our business. Driven by idealism and a sense of so- From Outdoor classes on the farm Pioneers in countryside cial responsibility, they then decided to to shopping education develop an educational farming centre, Every year thousands of pupils and Hilde De Sutter, responsible for the for Flemish pupils. A one-week stay on their teachers spend some time on the educational aspect on the farm, ex- an active farm was in that time really Vierhoekhoeve: they stay a couple of plains: “In 1974 my parents took over breaking fresh ground. That both teach- days or a full week and they discover the farm. At that time it was a closed ers and pupils like it, is a fact and since life on a farm. They get didactic support

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 14 21-12-2006 20:11:05 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories De Vierhoekhoeve

from vzw Boerderijklassen and there is A shop in expansion appropriate teaching material for each For fi fteen years they had this wish and form; there are practical classes and in 2006 it came true: the Vierhoekho- observation classes. “The children can eve opened its own farm shop. Under try anything on the Vierhoekhoeve: help the label Bella Boe they sell products milking the cows, they feed and take such as ice cream, jam, etc... The qual- care of the animals, they learn how to ity care and the image they pass on to bake bread and they get an introduc- the children during the classes, is now tion in the processing of milk and wool.” also put into practice. Quality control is Hilde thinks that it is important that the very strict. Hilde wants to extend the children should learn about the natural selection of the products. “In the near origin of many everyday products. “In future we shall also make cheese. Visi- the bread-baking classes we start from tors will be able to see for themselves the corn and fi nally we have our bread. how cheese is made.” It is all being explained in very concrete Thanks to its location the Vierhoekhoeve terms. The food we serve also comes can attract a diverse clientele: close to mainly from our own vegetable garden, the city of Ghent and the motorway. The from the farm shop or from the suppli- downside is that on the outskirts of the With their own farm shop their wish to do dairying at home, ers in the neighbourhood...” city there is not a lot of space for busi- became true. Thanks to the countryside project Pierle- ness expansion. It proved to be quite dif- pein, young and old become acquainted fi cult to get a licence for the renovated stable to make it even more convenient with the farming business. This imagi- animal-friendly stables. for the diary cattle contributes to this. nary but curious and undertaking mouse But their long-term planning also in- is an educational concept of the Provin- Striving to combine economic cludes commercial aspects. They are ciale Landbouwkamer voor Oost-Vlaan- viability with a liveable economy working on a communication plan aim- deren (The Provincial Agricultural Cham- As the Vierhoekhoeve wishes to in- ing at publicity in the medium and long ber for East-Flanders) with the support crease the nature awareness of young term. Hilde wants even higher quality of the EU, Flanders and the Provincial and old, it goes without saying that this standards to consolidate the market po- Council of East-Flanders. The mascot is refl ected in their management. Sus- sition of their product. And a private ad- Pierlepein dwells on fascinating items tainability is for Hilde indeed very im- viser helps them to follow up the com- of nature and he gives explanation by portant: “Each farmer is a rural manager plex operational management. means of questions. and by consequence he is aware of his You don’t have to be at school to visit environment. It is like a kind of steward- De Vierhoekhoeve the Vierhoekhoeve. There are holiday ship. We treat our fi elds and the coun- Brielstraat 71 courses, the Day of Agriculture, the tryside effi ciently without extracting all 9860 Gijzenzele, Belgium Countryside trail… Everyone is wel- the resources. We have a countryside +32 (0)9 362 77 19 come; visitors just have to come by the management plan in which the compa- www.vierhoekhoeve.be farm shop fi rst. Hilde dreams of taking ny is integrated in the surrounding coun- [email protected] part in the Open Company Day organ- tryside thanks to an adequate choice of ized by the Flemish authorities. plants. But also the renovation of the

On the farm they also welcome people with limited possibilities. They stay one day on the farm Every one gets a warm welcome and goes home full of nice memories. and they give a helping hand at their within their own pace.

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 15 21-12-2006 20:11:22 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories De Volle Maan The inspiring nature

SINT-LIEVENS-HOUTEM – THE DIARY GOAT FARM ‘DE VOLLE MAAN’ IS SITUATED IN A SHARP BEND, HIDDEN BEHIND LUSH GREENERY. BIOLOGICAL BREEDING OF MILCH GOATS, TURNING MILK INTO CHEESE, MARKETING THE PRODUCTS AND OFFERING FARM TOURISM. COULD FARMING BE BROADER THAN THAT? KATHELIJNE AND BART TELL YOU ALL ABOUT THEIR VISION AND THEIR ENGAGEMENT.

house with skill and taste and there is now room for “six persons, which can enjoy the oasis of greenery and peace. And of course we serve them a biological breakfast. This also proves our pas- The farm “De Volle Maan” offers a wide range of biological products with raw goat’s milk as a base. The farm’s shop is open every sion for our products.” day, except on Sundays. And in the future? Kathelijne and Bart athelijne and Bart both have a scale company. Five employees look still have some clear-cut plans. The Kbachelor degree and they thought after the 200 goats, which give every goat’s feed – maize, clover and corn it all out. In 1995, shortly after gradu- day 500 litres of fresh goat’s milk. The – is biologically cultivated and should in ation, Kathelijne wanted to do some- goats are white Saanen and brown term be done by the own staff. Techni- thing creative and she thought about Alpine breeds. The fresh daily milk is cal improvements of the milk produc- a ﬂ ower shop or a health food shop. processed in their own cheese dairy. tion, including the milk yield of each They ﬁ nally opted for a goat farm, with Since 2005 the company also offers goat and the protein and fat contents cheese making as the creative aspect. farm tourism. They restored an out- of the milk, are still on the agenda. They And although her parents were farmers, she was inspired by her aunt’s attitude to life, who also liked goats.

It all started at home, with eighteen goats Some ten years ago Kathelijne and Bart decided to begin a goat farm. Their passion for delicious and healthy food inspired them to start cheese making. “We started with a traditional goat farm. In 2000, in the aftermath of a couple of food crises and in reaction to the demand on the marked, we converted the farm into a biological breeding farm. This is not at all an obvious choice, because if you want to run a small-scale but viable company, you have to go for processing.” If you have to run your business on milk production only, a biological farm easily needs 600 to 1000 goats. The small-scale farm became a full- Since 2005 the farm is open for tourists. An outhouse has been restored with skill and taste.

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 16 21-12-2006 20:11:35 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories De Volle Maan

could still cut energy costs by installing names such as cendré, crottin, bûchette solar panels. And they think a lot about and bûche. Making fresh cheeses only the further integration of the company takes two days, making hard cheeses in the surrounding scenery and about takes up to two months. Thanks to opening a didactical farm path. clever planning – the ﬁ rst group of goats drops young in January and the A passion for cheese making second group in April – it is possible to When he was a student Bart became milk the goats and make cheese the passionately fond of marketing and entire year. The hard cheeses are useful sales still fascinate him. That’s why, since they allow processing the extra in addition to the goat farming and milk during summer. For a kilo of hard the cheese diary, they decided to put cheese you easily need some ten litres their own products on the market. The of milk. Also yoghurt, fresh goat’s milk cheese is mainly sold on the farm it- and whey are sold. Pressed cheese and self, on markets and through health butter are within the bounds of possi-

food shops and a very small part of it, bility, but here there are some technical An innovating concept and taking care of production and sales also through (local) supermarkets. By restrictions. fi ts the way of thinking of the entrepreneurs. doing so, the company has full control Nature as a source of inspiration! on quality insurance. Some products of Innovating concept the “Volle Maan” have the Bioguaran- When asked for the strengths and weak- appropriate size of the company always tee label. nesses of the company, Kathelijne and remain and labour organization is by far The market share of biological diary Bart make a crystal clear analysis. Of the hardest job for the entrepreneurs. is still rather limited and diary with a course there still are some challenges. But everything is running smoothly. An base of raw goat’s milk still is a young Changing to biological breeding means innovating concept and taking care of product group. Cheese is not the only that they have to learn how to think in production and sales fi ts the way of fi nished product, but it is the most im- terms of systems and methods and thinking of the entrepreneurs. Nature portant one and they sell various mak- this does cause some practical prob- as a source of inspiration! ings of it: from soft curd cheese (natu- lems. But they are convinced that back ral and with fresh herbs), fresh cheese in 1995 they should have started with De Volle Maan (natural, with dried herbs, and with the biological goat farm right away. Bart De Beck and Kathelijne De Clercq fresh wild onion) and semi-dry cheese Taking care of both production and sales IJshoute 70 (with nuts, pepper, garlic, currants, …) is extremely labour-intensive. Further 9520 Sint-Lievens-Houtem, Belgium to hard cheese (natural and with nettle). diversifi cation is barely possible: goat’s +32 (0)9 362 31 55 The range includes also some ripened, farm, cheese diary, sales, farm tourism www.devollemaan.be white-mould cheeses with eccentric … it’s all taken care of. Doubts about the [email protected]

Discovery the goat’s farm “De Volle Maan” The farm’s shop is open every day, except on Sundays, continuously from 9:00 till 18:00 o’clock. From Tuesdays till Sundays the home-made cheeses are for sale on public markets in the region. You can also ﬁ nd their products in famous restaurants and selected retailers. When you buy the products, you can visit the farm. You are free to visit the company, except from the cheese diary. If you really want to spend some time on the farm you can stay for a weekend or a week. In a separate house you can enjoy a wonderful stay. In the morning a biological breakfast is served. For more information, visit the website. The 200 goats give every day 500 litres of fresh goat’s milk. The fresh daily milk is processed in their own chase diary.

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 17 21-12-2006 20:12:06 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Marnix Alexander and Tonia Dhont

A cabinet with milk

WACHTEBEKE – FRESH MILK WHENEVER YOU WANT, AROUND THE CLOCK? IT IS POSSIBLE! IN WACHTEBEKE, IN EAST-FLANDERS, THERE IS A DAIRY FARM, RAN BY MARNIX ALEXANDER AND TONIA DHONT. SINCE THE BEGINNING OF 2006 THEY HAVE A MILK DISPENSER. OR HOW THEIR MILK PRODUCTION GAINED IMPORTANCE.

The company is located in an open and swampy territory. In the distance there are lines of trees alongside the Moervaart.

n 1988 the couple chooses for each beets and they can buy the beet-pulp at sary they can now store up to 8000 Iother and for a future on the dairy a very competitive price. They tried po- litres of milk. For the new storage farm of the father of Marnix. Every day tato culture for a while, but there were tank Marnix and Tonia choose to install their ninety cows give them a healthy too many risks involved and the extra a tubular cooler. Marnix explains this: milk yield. burden was too much. “The principle of the tubular cooler is The purchase of the milk dispenser is a rather simple: the warm milk passes Restricted possibilities? fi rst step to product diversifi cation. It is through the one tube and cold spring The dairy farm is surrounded by nature a healthy and pleasant initiative! water passes through the other tube area: on one side there is nature reserve, in opposite direction. Thanks to this on the other there is a large provincial Years of large investments double tubular construction, the milk property. Marnix explains: “In this valua- Thanks to the structural investments cools down from 37°C to 15°C to ble area expansion will be diffi cult; there made during the last ten years, Mar- 20°C. The warmed-up water can be even is some uncertainty about the fu- nix and Tonia have now a beautiful and used as drinking water, especially dur- ture use of some of our grounds. Due promising company. ing the winter. It proved to be a very to the policy of the port and the Flemish In 1999 they decided to renovate the energy-saving and advantageous, not manure decree, the grounds are very stable for calves and cows. At the same only from an economical but also from popular here and they have become time they constructed a larger manure an ecological point of view!” more expensive. As it is impossible to cellar. With a manure storage capacity Whenever possible, the company tries extend our territory, we focus on inter- of 1.5 million litres they are capable of to recuperate its raw materials. When nal investments in order to try to extend tiding over the minimum period of six building the new stable they installed our range of products.” months required in Flanders for storing a rainwater tank of 100 000 litres. As On some of the fi elds Marnix and Tonia manure. the stable has a roof of 1500 m2, they cultivate livestock feed: maize and sugar Three years later they have new money can collect quite a lot of rainwater. That beets. The presence of a sugar refi nery for more renovation works: the milking rainwater is used as drinking water for in the neighbourhood also infl uenced shed is renovated and they purchase a the cattle, for cleaning the stables or for their choice. The refi nery pulps their larger milk storage tank. When neces- domestic use.

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 18 21-12-2006 20:12:50 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Marnix Alexander and Tonia Dhont

A panel along the road draws the attention of the people driving past. Tonia next to the milk dispenser machine; open around the clock.

Fresh milk should be raw the farmhouse. A cow in a cabinet. the scope of regulations on sales at October 2004: Marnix reads in an agri- The advantages of the milk dispenser home, so there is hardly any paperwork cultural magazine about a farmer with a are multiple. “With our four children and involved.” milk dispenser machine. He thinks that the dairy farm we already had plenty of Although the milk dispenser machine this might work in his region as well. As work. With the milk dispenser machine was not the fi rst one in Flanders, the the farm of Marnix and Tonia is located we can offer a new product, without press paid a lot of attention to this initia- next to a busy road and not far away too much extra work. The milk is not tive in the fi rst weeks. The whole family from the centre of town, it seems to be pasteurized, but raw and so it contains goes out to distribute brochures in the the perfect place. But it was too early more vitamins. We only have to maintain streets of Wachtebeke. They made a for new investments. and fi ll the machine. We do not waste fantastic start! But the idea of the milk dispenser kept our time packing since the people have What does Marnix think about the in- running through his mind. On an agri- to bring their own jugs or bottles. This vestment now? That, he cannot tell yet, cultural fair in December 2005 Marnix is even better for the environment. And it’s only six months since the project again makes inquiries about the milk the milk dispenser actually is more con- started. But the estimates are positive. dispenser and his plans become more venient for us since our customers had The daily consumption still varies a lot. concrete. Five months later a smil- to come on certain hours, now they can This means that publicity remains nec- ing cow alongside the road points to a come whenever they please and we do essary. milk dispenser machine. The dispenser not have to interrupt our work. Another stands in a wooden shelter, adjoining plus is that a milk dispenser is beyond A warm future An enterprising mind never stops and Marnix and Tonia are developing a new idea. The dairy farm uses a lot of energy and heating oil is expensive. In the future they want to make investments in that domain. What they will do precisely, they still don’t know, but it surely will be something good for nature: a solar water heater heating up the water with sunlight or picture voltaic cells, which convert light directly into electricity … it is still a bit too soon after the last investment. But enterprising minds generally also look at the future in a down-to-earth way. So Marnix and Tonia are waiting for the right moment!

You wish to visit the farm? More info: Marnix Alexander and Tonia Dhont Meersstraat 94 9185 Wachtebeke, Belgium +32 (0)9 345 61 66 Marnix feeds the animals with his mixed feed wagon so that he can perfectly follow up the supplies. [email protected]

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 19 21-12-2006 20:13:38 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories NV Vlaemynck J & Zn A Prize for Southern tomatoes… from Nevele!

NEVELE – ON THE BANKS OF THE SCHIPDONK CANAL, THE TOMATO FARM OF THE VLAEMYNCK BROTHERS CELEBRATES ITS TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY.

Originally the brothers cultivated tomatoes and lettuce in the greenhouses, but in April 1986 they harvest the last cabbage and ever since the tomato has been the company’s king. After a couple of years on the look-out, in 1997 the company opts for high-quality vine tomatoes: the Flandria Pittoresk, a big and tasty tomato which keeps well. These tomatoes can be cultivated throughout the year. In January they start planting six week old plants, which yield a ﬁ rst crop at the end of March. After 1600 tons of tomatoes, in December, the year is closed with a cleanup. Along with the three brothers, there are The tomatoes are being harvested currently working six permanent employees on the farm. Every year during the hanks to constant innovation the in order to extend the greenhouses. high season, fourteen people join the Tcompany has earned more than “one In 1981, his son Herman, graduated at team with extra energy and pleasure feather in its cap”. Just some examples: the horticultural college, joins the compa- (from the beginning of April till the end the conversion to substrate culture, buy- ny that had become a greenhouse farm. of September). ing raw material in an organized way, Soon afterward the two other sons also energy-conscious cultivation with a com- chose for a career in the company. Their From substrate to oven-dried bined heat and power system, product entrepreneurship is obvious, right from tomato… with respect for nature! differentiation with oven-dried tomatoes the start: the three sons start a partner- After a workshop in Melle, the Vlaemynck … ship and expand the business. They add another greenhouse of 7000 m2 to the A father and his three sons business and they have the wooden The history of the horticultural farm start- ones replaced by aluminium greenhous- ed forty years ago. Father Vlaemynck quit- es, which are higher and provide a better ted his job in a grocer’s shop to start the climate. construction of a 4.000 m2 greenhouse The collaboration goes smoothly: while in Nevele. During the summer he grew father Vlaeminck keeps an eye on things, tomatoes, cabbage lettuce during the the brothers divide the tasks between winter. And things went well; he extend- them: Herman takes care of the cultures, ed his product range with strawberries, Dirk takes care of the technical aspects broccoli, Durandeau pears… But over the and Johan takes cares of administration. Presentation of the oven-dried tomato on the Day of years the orchards and ﬁ elds disappeared They complement each other well. Agriculture.

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 20 21-12-2006 20:14:46 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories NV Vlaemynck J & Zn

The father, founder of the company and his successors, his three sons. Bumblebees take care of pollination

brothers are the fi rst ones in East-Flanders Johan Vlaemynck is always actively look- ers then decided to buy a big oven in (1983) to switch over from soil culture to ing to improve the farm. And so, in 2003 order to dry these tomatoes. Afterwards substrate culture (on mineral wool). The he visits a Dutch colleague where he gets they are marketed via an exclusive cir- conversion has a particular economical his idea for a joint purchasing programme. cuit as a delicacy in olive-oil with herbs. impact and it is considerably less pollut- “When purchasing our raw materials such Visitors on the Day of Agriculture could ing: the annual fumigation of the soil with as gas, mineral wool, plastic fi lm, plants… taste this new delicacy of the South of the toxic agent methyl bromide and the it is very hard for a company of 3 ha to get Flanders and they helped to make the indispensable top dressing are no longer a good price. We followed the example of herbs recipe just perfect. This idea was necessary. And what’s more, after fumi- that Dutch colleague and together with rewarded with a two-yearly prize of the gation with UV-rays the water can be re- some other companies in the neighbour- “Innovationsteunpunt” (centre for in- used. hood we are now forming a group. There novation) of the “Boerenbond” (Belgian That our environment is fragile and that are 18 of us and together that is 30 ha. Farmer’s association). we have to take care of it, that is what That puts us in a better position to negoti- the brothers are well aware of. Johan ate a favourable price with our suppliers. The company’s secret Vlaemynck explains: “In terms of innova- And in addition to the economical advan- The Vlaemynck brothers like working in- tion, here at the farm, the environmental tage, we surely gain much time!” side and outside their company. Work- aspect is very important. Of course we do An important revolutionary innovation for shops, the Day of Agriculture, project have to consider the economical aspects the company is the installation of a com- with the Tasting Centre for Vegetable as well, but there often are good and eco- bined heat and power (CHP) system, a Cultivation and the University of Ghent logical alternatives. For instance we use kind of small power station. The produced (project “speaking plant”), collaboration bumblebees for pollination and we use heat is used in the greenhouses and the with the Innovatiesteunpunt,… these dy- biological means for insect control. There generated energy will be sold. And also namics are to the benefi t of all parties. is a biological equilibrium of the different here economy and environment go hand Every day, from 8 a.m. till 6 p.m. they are natural products. And in 1991 we convert- in hand, says Johan Vlaemynck: “We got working on the farm, except on Sundays. ed to natural gas. The carbon emission is the idea of a combined heat and power They have a busy social agenda. One being recuperated and goes to the green- system on a workshop in Brussels. It is of them is president of the indoor soc- house for an optimum photosynthesis of an investment of 1.4 millions of euros, cer club; the other one is president of the tomato plants.” but is it indispensable to be competitive the voluntary blood donors and the last in the future. On the one hand we expect one is engaged in the welfare in Nevele. to reduce our fuel costs with 25% and on But they never forget about the compa- the other hand this technique allows us to ny’s secret: working hard is addition and considerably cut the carbon emission and working together is multiplication! that is how we help to meet the Kyoto standard.” If you want to pay us a visit, just ask, And fi nally, the summer of 2006 brought bio-engineers, children from primary school, on an extremely creative idea: a qualita- everyone is welcome. tive reallocation of torn tomatoes. Until NV Vlaemynck J & Zn recently these tomatoes were being sold Nieuwe Kerkstraat 8 as tomatoes for the soup. That seemed a 9850 Poesele-Nevele, Belgium waste, since they were very juicy and de- +32 (0)9 371 51 06 or +32 (0)494 84 16 83 The tomatoes are put ready for auction. licious tomatoes. The Vlaemynck broth- [email protected]

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 21 21-12-2006 20:15:07 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Cressana bvba

A watercress aperitif to your health!

ZWALM – NEXT TO THE EARLY GOTHIC CHURCH OF ROBORST (ZWALM) IN EAST-FLANDERS THERE IS A STATUE OF A YOUNG WOMAN WITH WATERCRESS IN HER HAND. THE ENGRAVED WORDS TELL US: “HE, WHO HONOURS WATERCRESS, WILL BE RESISTANT TO ILLNESS”. A BIT FURTHER DOWN THERE IS CRESSANA, THE COMPANY OF KAREL VAN DE VELDE AND MYRIAM COESSENS, WHERE THEY CULTIVATE WATER CRESS AND PROCESS IT INTO CAPSULES.

The processing unit where the capsules are made. After a ﬁ erce ﬁ re, it rose again from the ashes, with the help of neighbours and friends.

rom culinary top … essed very quickly in order to maintain its FThe story of Cressana starts at the quality. Processing is mainly manual and beginning of the eighties. Before, Karel it is a very labour-intensive process.” was a professional musician and Myriam Watercress grows on terraces with a a botanist, but nightlife became too diffi - width of 3 m and a length of 60 m. Cul- cult and they were looking for something tivation is from March to the end of No- new they could start together. They de- vember. Not only in Roborst Karel and cided to do something with water cress. Myriam have watercress beds, but the In the region Zwalm, in the province of beds are a curiosity in three other Flem- East-Flanders they have always been ac- ish villages as well (Hundelgem, Velzeke quainted with water cress: that is where and Neerijse). in 1927 cultivation of water cress started. At fi rst they cultivated the watercress In 1983 Karel and Myriam again started mainly for culinary purposes: it adds a building watercress beds in the source spicy fl avour to salads and toppings. region nearby. Their biological product clearly had sales “Watercress is not an evident choice”, potential: full of nostalgia Karel tells us Karel tells us. “The culture of this vegeta- about the many early mornings he drove ble is linked to a well: the primary condi- his packed car to the market in Brussels. tion for a successful watercress culture And later on he switched his car for a is the presence of pure and streaming truck. spring water. Water pollution is extremely harmful for that little plant. And once … to healing capsule When you enter the village of Roborst, next to the church you see a statue of a woman with watercress in her hand. harvested, the vegetable has to be proc- In the early nineties Karel and Myriam

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 22 21-12-2006 20:15:21 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Cressana bvba

Watercress in close-up Watercress is cultivated on terraces and it needs pure spring water.

had to cope with heavy competition form still unpacked. Thanks to the enormous Agriculture in September. Satisfi ed cus- the Netherlands, where they offered wa- solidarity and initiatives of many people, tomers largely contribute to our growing tercress at predatory prices. They went they were able to rebuild everything in a success.” on the look-out for a new market for their short period of time. Groups of minimum 25 people can visit watercress and they decided to focus on And Karel has even more dreams: he the company from the 15th of April till the therapeutic effects of watercress. wants to make the Zwalm region famous the 15th of October, just make an ap- This vegetable is not only delicious, it through the production of a high-quality pointment. They can visit the watercress also has a healing effect on the bile, the curative product. A new project is ready: beds, where Karel explains about how liver and the kidneys and a purifying ef- in collaboration with the University of watercress is cultivated. Karel knows fect for people suffering from rheuma- Ghent they will do research on how to how to grip his listeners and interacts tism and gout. Also cancer patients may standardise their products. They want to with them, depending on the groups. obtain relief from them since they con- accurately determine the concentrations After the guided tour they are served a tain high doses of glucosinolate. of active substances so that they will be watercress aperitif with a base of water- Throughout the years the couple was able to make a reproducible product with cress syrup. Cheers! looking for an appropriate way to mar- the same high quality. Everything is done ket their products. “In 2001 we started by the company itself, from the fi eld to Cressana bvba making frozen watercress juice to be the capsule. As regards their competitive Karel Van De Velde and Myriam Coessens sold on the local market. It was quite position, Cressana is not threatened by Borstekouterstraat 66 successful, but its frozen form made it competitors from the surrounding Euro- 9630 Roborst-Zwalm, Belgium hard to guarantee its high quality when pean countries. +32 (0)55 49 73 00 commercialising it and selling it through [email protected] other channels. That is why we changed One hundred coaches a year www.cressana.com to freeze-drying. The freeze-dried water- The location of Cressana in the middle of cress is crushed fi ne and processed to the hilly Flemish Ardennes also attracts capsules of vegetal origin (Vcaps). We a lot of tourists. Since the early eighties believe in the healing effects of water- Marcel De Boe, an innkeeper, organizes cress for cancer patients, that is why we sightseeing trips in the area. He shows switched over to the phytopharmaceuti- the tourist the many water mills and cal sector.” stops so they can admire the watercress The new product is still being developed, beds. Karel and Myriam always make as regards its marketing, but the future some time for the tourists. is promising. The company employs six Every year they welcome about one hun- people and a salesman takes care of its dred groups of tourists on a trip through commercial distribution. He is responsi- the Flemish Ardennes. These visits are ble for increasing the clientele and con- excellent publicity for the watercress. solidating their market position. Of course, an entrepreneur has to know The success story receives an ugly blow how to sell his product, but Karel speaks when in January 2006 the new process- passionately about his company. “I like to ing unit is reduced to ashes in only a few give information on the company and the hours time. Karel and Myriam see how watercress. That is how people become their investment of 900 000 euros goes interested. We are always open during up in fl ames; some of the machine were the Bioweek in June and on the Day of Karel on one of his watercress fi elds.

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 23 21-12-2006 20:15:34 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories De Hippomaan Donkey farm De Hippomaan: Unique in Flanders! ZEVEREN – ASSES’ MILK IS SOMETHING SPECIAL IN FLANDERS. THE MILK HAS SKIN REVITALIZING FEATURES. CLEOPATRA HAD DONKEYS IN HER RETINUE FOR SKIN CARE; ALSO THE LEGENDARY EMPRESS SISSI USED THE MILK FOR THE SAME REASON. EVELINE DE GANCK STARTED IN 2003 BREEDING DONKEYS – AS A PIONEER IN FLANDERS. AS REGARDS THE MARKET PRODUCT, PROCESSING, FARM SHOP AND SOCIAL BROADENING, THE INITIATIVE SOON PROVED TO BE VERY SUCCESSFUL!

Donkeys… stubborn or not, their milk is delicious! Asses’ milk is very similar to mother’s milk and in the past it was often used to feed babies.

ince childhood Eveline knew that ha of ground. When the weather is bad that milk is healthy”, Eveline says. “In Sanimals were her true passion. How- they can shelter in large open stables. The southern countries during centuries they ever, she graduated as translator and in- farm does not produce its own hay and used to drink donkey milk as a kind of terpreter, she worked in the aviation sec- straw, but purchases it. That is also true tonic. The milk is full of minerals, trace el- tor and she was travel guide in Spain. But for the donkeys’ feed in the winter. ements and vitamins. And it is low in fat. her love of animals never disappeared Donkey mares only produce milk after There is still a lot of scientifi c research and Eveline started working out concrete having given birth to a foal. When a mare being carried out on the curative effects plans. Thanks to good acquaintances in is fertile, Eveline puts them together with of the milk, but it is a proven fact that France, she opts for a donkey farm. For a stallion and nature can do its thing. The this natural product activates the intes- Belgium this was absolutely unique. In foals stay with the mother during one tinal fl ora and increases resistance in a 2003 the donkey farm started business. year and are then sold to private persons. natural way.” The milk has a sweet and It is during that year that the mare shares pleasant taste. The herd her daily milk yield between her foal and Flemish donkey milk as such is a total- There are about forty donkeys on the the farm. ly new product, but Eveline is looking farm, two of them being stallions. The The farm also breeds dogs, as a sideline. for more. She is the fi rst to explore the main breed in the herd is Grand Noir du They breed only dogs with a pedigree and possibilities of the derivates of the milk. Berry: beautiful and large animals with sell them dog lovers. Donkey milk is not only benefi cial to the a rather dark coat and a proud attitude. body, but it is an excellent skin care prod- There are also a couple of Poitou donkeys, Milk, soap and lotion uct. The company produces a complete these are long-coated and have a quiet “There are many legends about donkey range of beauty products with a base character. The animals can run free on 3 milk, but they all tell the same message: of donkey milk under the name Julie

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 24 21-12-2006 20:15:53 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories De Hippomaan

The farm shop with the Julie en Colette product range. This soap machine is used to make “soap with donkey milk” according to traditional methods.

en Colette. All ingredients are natural. it is a very useful experience in a world cycling rides, trips, family parties, trips of The soap is made on the farm accord- outside the institution. I could not do retired persons, etc Participating in the ing to traditional methods: ﬁ rst the milk without their enthusiastic company any- Day of Agriculture and the Open-com- is freeze-dried and mechanically added more!” Right from the start care farming pany day and welcoming children on the to soap pellets. Other products (such as was part of the company, at ﬁ rst this was farm has even attracted the attention of body lotion, hand cream, day cream…) completely voluntarily, but recently the both the local and the national press. The are made in a laboratory with quality con- Flemish Department of Agriculture and TV programme on tourism “Vlaanderen trol. Fishing pays a fee for the time the farmer Vakantieland” and the national radio sta- spends with these people. tion Radio 2 also paid them a visit. Care and show farm As she cares about education, the Hip- Completely in line with the company’s In addition to the commercial aspects, pomaan became one of the thirty Flem- social engagement, the Hippomaan also the company also has a social mission. ish show farms. You can visit the farm in offers trainee posts for students of e.g. The Hippomaan takes part in the project group and see for yourself how the ani- bachelor in animal care. Groene Zorg (Green care): this is a social mals are fed and milked and how the milk care project in a green environment for is processed. You can try the skin prod- Looking to the future… vulnerable groups of our society. Every ucts and taste some milk. The farm is ac- Eveline drew up a business plan but it day two people with limited possibilities cessible for persons in wheelchairs and it soon became clear that one person alone come to the donkey farm. Eveline under- has specially adapted bathroom facilities. could not cope. Recently they decided to scores that it is very important to do eve- These visits in groups often lead to other contract one external employee for the rything at their pace. “For these people activities and the farm is now popular for commercialization of the products. As people are not familiar with the product, a good communication campaign is necessary as you know: unknown, unloved. But those who do know the product keep coming back! In addition to the sales in the farm shop, they will in the future sell their products in other shops as well. Other initiatives for the future are: actions during the Christmas period, taking part in farmer’s markets in the neighbouring city of Gh- ent and cooperation with a pottery in the neighbourhood.

Donkey Farm De Hippomaan Eveline De Ganck Wierookstraat 10 9800 Zeveren – Deinze, Belgium + 32 (0)9 386 65 37 or +32 (0)476 38 61 67 www.dehippomaan.be Eveline and her assistant farmers: in cooperation with “Groene Zorg”, disabled persons spend some useful time on the farm. [email protected]

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 25 21-12-2006 20:16:10 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories De Valleihoeve Enjoying your strawberry ice-cream HUISE – AT THE EDGE OF THE HILLY LANDSCAPE OF THE FLEMISH ARDENNES THERE IS THE VALLEIHOEVE, THE MIXED FARM OF HERMAN DEVAERE AND ANNICK VAN CAESTER. THE COUPLE SECURED THE FUTURE OF THEIR ARABLE AND DAIRY FARM BY EXTENDING THEIR AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITIES: THEY SET UP A FARM SHOP, OPENED A SUCCESSFUL OUTDOOR TEA- ROOM AND THEY HAVE PLANS TO DRAW MORE TOURISTS TO THEIR FARM.

lot. There is also a joint advertising campaign and this is much more efﬁ cient that making publicity by your own.” The turnover is growing and in the meanwhile products of the Valleihoeve are also being sold outside the farm. Various traders appreciate the quality and the honesty.

Homemade strawberry ice-cream The selection of vegetables and fruits in the farm shop vary according to the season. With products as ice puddings and he farm, which Herman took over in years later they can add homemade ice- cheesecakes on the shelves, combined T1987, is rather small. It has an area cream, ice puddings and cheesecakes with the beautiful landscape, they start- of 18 ha and 24 milch cows, calves and to the list. ed to make plans to have an outdoor nursing cows. Expansion is hardly pos- The strawberry period is extremely tea-room on the farm. They take all the sible and Herman focuses partially on busy, but also the chicories are in de- necessary steps and in 2003 there is seasonal cultures such as strawberries. mand. That the offer is rather limited is an outdoor tea-room on their farm-yard. This was the ﬁ rst step and there soon not a disadvantage; as Herman says: “I This was a new investment, which is would be other steps: do not have any doubts that I want to however compensated by the fact that continue like this. Nature determines it is spread over the years. A farm shop is lucrative our offer. Selling our products directly to The outdoor tea-room is a successful In 2000 the Valleihoeve started selling the customers, without intermediaries, example of farm tourism. On the one strawberries and other products on the is our biggest asset. That is how we can hand there is the natural element: the farm. The success leads them to sus- guarantee a fresh product, a fair price, a grasslands with milch cows in the valley pect that there is market for a genuine transparent product and a pure taste.” offer a marvellous panoramic view. For farm shop. Herman and Annick invest The Valleihoeve is member of an ac- the hikers and bikers this is an excellent in their shop, where they sell regional credited network of farm shops in the place to rest. On the other hand due to and seasonal vegetables and fruit, pota- Flemish Ardennes, a rural region in the friendly welcome of the Delvaere toes, free-range eggs and milk. Annick East-Flanders Annick considers it to be family the visitors come back for more. and their eldest daughter try to make a favourable evolution: “They often or- Especially children feel at home: on the different ﬂ avours of ice-cream and two ganize activities where you can learn a toy tractors and go-carts they explore

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 26 21-12-2006 20:16:42 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories De Valleihoeve

Everyone enjoys the outdoor tea-room and its products: old and young, children, bikers, hikers and even riders.

the farm, they play with the kitten, look who like to enjoy the countryside easily Practical information at the cows in the stable and feed the recognize the tall fruit orchard, bordered The opening hours of the farm vary ac- chickens. with hawthorn or hedges of ashes and cording to the season. For the period Not all of the plans of Herman and An- other trees next to the residential al- October – March: Monday, Wednesday, nick have come true yet. And they think lotment. On the farm-yard the solitary Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; for the aloud about more possibilities for farm walnut trees provide refreshing shade period April – September: open every tourism. “The wagon shed with ﬁ ve in the summer and before the front of day from 2 p.m. to 21 p.m., only closed rooms was built in 1732, but it is in a the house there are the typical limes. on Thursdays.. reasonable condition. It is of little use The plan also includes the restoration of for the moment and we would like to a pool. Annick means that they should De Valleihoeve convert it to a covered patio, so that have done all of this long time ago, be- Herman Devaere and Annick Van Caester for our outdoor tea-room we are less cause also the visitors appreciate it very Rooigemstraat 15 dependent on the weather conditions. much “People are curious to see what 9750 Huise – Zingem, Belgium Maybe we can even serve farm meals. we do here and they like it. We have al- +32 (0)9 383 63 43 or +32 (0)472 47 14 04 We are also thinking about “farmer’s ready received many positive reactions www.valleihoeve.be golf”, a game of Dutch origin. Visitors to the execution of the plan.” [email protected] could learn how to play it here.”

With a view of the countryside (and its policy) The active care for the countryside is for Herman and Annick an extra challenge and satisfaction. “People like to be here and enjoy the quiet of the countryside; this stimulates us to pay more attention to the countryside,” Annick explains. “That is why we welcomed the offer of the Provincial Agricultural Chamber of East-Flanders to work out an operating plan for the countryside.” In the course of 2005 they drew up a plan within the scope of Farmers protect the countryside. This plan was imple- mented in the spring of 2006. They laid out new typical landscaping elements and restored others in harmony with the

farm management, which accentuates From the outdoor tea-room you have a wonderful view of the grasslands with the cattle and of the landscape, a point of special the speciﬁ city of the landscape. People interest for the farmers.

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 27 21-12-2006 20:17:01 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Hoeve Engelendael

With the cultivation of cherries Marc Govaert and Nicole van de Bilt (picture) enter a niche market which in 2006 has already proven to be a great success. Investing in niche markets and countryside development

SINT-JAN-IN-EREMO – JUST BEYOND THE ROUNDABOUT AT THE FOOT OF THE WATER TOWER, WHICH ONCE WAS CONSIDERED TO BE FUTURISTIC, A BEAUTIFUL FLOWER VERGE ALONGSIDE THE SINT-JANSPOLDER DIKE PLEASANTLY SURPRISES EVERY PASSER-BY. A BIT FURTHER YOU SEE THE ARABLE FARM ENGELENDAEL, OWNED BY MARC GOVAERT AND NICOLE VAN DE BILT. CELERIAC AND SWEET CHERRIES REPLACED PART OF THE TRADITIONAL ARABLE FARMING CROP. LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT AND COUNTRYSIDE RECREATION ARE OTHER CHALLENGES MARC AND NICOLE ARE WILLING TO ACCEPT.

arc was educated in an agricultur- traditional cultures to make room for mainstream market. Like sweet cherries, Mal college in Ath (in the southern onions and celeriac. Only a very limited for instance. As a matter of fact, sweet provinces of Belgium) and in Goes (the percentage of the crop is cultivated on a cherries have their roots in the history of Netherlands). In 1992 he was the fi fth contract. He tries to determine the best the region: tradition tells us that in the generation to take over the Engelendael delivery date in order to receive the high- past on St. John’s Day (June 24) sweet farm, with a surface of 130 hectares. est market value; so in fact he makes full cherries were being sold in Sint-Jan-In- The farm’s future was in his hands. But use of the free market processes. This Eremo. Marc wants to revive the old cus- due to the constant decrease of eco- can however also lead to extremely low tom and thanks to him Sint-Jan-In-Eremo nomic return, things looked bad. “At fi rst prices, but that is a risk he is willing to is now again the village of sweet cher- I thought that I could gradually expand take. ries! the business, as my father had done be- A more eye-catching product is without In 2006 the fi rst commercial harvest is a fore. However, the market was evolving any doubt the sweet cherry. In 2002 fact and the farm starts to sell the Enge- in such a way that I had to make choices. Marc decides to use one hectare of ter- lendael cherries on the farm itself. With A I began to look further.” ritory for this rather alternative culture. delicious product for an honest price as a Doing so, he enters the area of niche motto, the cottage sales grew to be very A brand-new Engelendael cherry markets. A niche market is a focused, tar- successful, also thanks to the media and As he wanted his company to have getable portion of a market sector, with word-of-mouth advertising. Marc is sat- prospects, Marc reduced the range of a product that is not being offered on the isfi ed with this investment. “The fi rst

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 28 21-12-2006 20:17:51 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Hoeve Engelendael

year really was a success. But also the contacts with the people gave me much satisfaction. One month of cherry-picking gave me more energy than a whole year of potato cultivation. And what’s more, this cultivation ﬁ ts perfectly in our work schemes.” In order to guarantee the quality of the sweet cherries, they plan other investments in the year to come.

In the orchard there is also room for a couple of quince trees. The odds are that from next year onward the quinces will be sold to whoever is interested.

Investing in fl owering fi eld edges? When developing the cherry orchard, the edge of the parcel had to remain with- A historical farm, located in a unique landscape with historical interest. out trees. Marc reached an agreement with VLM (Vlaamse Landmaatschappij), a Flemish institution, which pays a fee for good rural management of parcels of ground. Innovation not only refers to diversifi cation of agricultural activities, but it also includes themes like countryside development. From then onward Marc took an interest in agrarian environmental management. Currently there are already various agree- ments with the VLM. “I am a self-respect- ing hunter and I have always been interested in game management and biotope improvement. Environmental management is connected. The authorities have a lot of initiatives to stimulate agrarian environmental management. I seized the Manager Marc Govaert about the trial project for fl owering fi eld edges: “Due to the many positive reactions and the interest shown by opportunity and I started thinking on how other farmers, I hope that after the trial we can continue and extend the project.” certain measures could be integrated in my operational management.” to survive in the current farm manage- pose. We intend to renovate it so groups At the moment about six hectares of ment system. And they make a beautiful of visitors can stay there.” the farm land fall under the agrarian en- rural picture, which increases the tourist Environmental management makes vironmental management. There is bank attraction of the area. Engelendael more attractive and being of about fi ve-hundred meters for which an entrepreneur Marc is looking for pos- they set up a project concerning the pro- Agritourism sibilities to link it to an economical pur- tection of species and biotope improve- The Engelendael farm is located in an pose. In that way it would be a win-win ment in collaboration with the Provincial area full of coves, which is very appreci- situation for everyone. With agritourism authorities. ated for its natural and rural aspects. Rec- and agrarian environmental management An even more attractive example are the reation increases every year. Also Marc as pillars for the future, Marc hopes to fi eld edges full of fl owers. With the sup- has noticed that the region has become have made the right choice. port of the Interreg IIIA-project Farmers much more appealing for tourists. “As a protect the countryside; on the remaining farmer I can respond by taking part in the Hoeve Engelendael fi eld edges they will within the scope of countryside management. And tourists Marc Govaert and Nicole van de Bilt the initiative (in a trial phase) sow summer are also potential buyers of the cherries, Sint-Janspolderdijk 14 grains and a corn buttercup. As these sum- for instance. We want to explore this idea 9982 Sint-Jan-in-Eremo, Belgium mer grains will not be harvested they will and offer the tourist a stay on the farm so Nicole: +32 (0)497 25 44 60 Sweet cherries constitute an ideal biotope for arable land that they can really live in nature. On the Marc: +32 (0)477 36 23 77 Renting of the shed birds, bees and other arable land organ- farm-yard there is a historically important www.engelendael.be isms for which it is sometimes very hard shed, which might be used for that pur- [email protected]

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 29 21-12-2006 20:18:15 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Herman Verberckmoes Sheep grazing on the banks of the river Scheldt GREMBERGEN – EVER SINCE THE MIDDLE AGES A CERTAIN FARMER VERBERCKMOES HAS KEPT HIS SHEEP ON THE BANKS OF THE RIVER SCHELDT. A FAMILY HISTORY OF MORE THAN EIGHT CENTURIES FINALLY BRINGS US TO HERMAN VERBERCKMOES. HIS PARENTS HAD A FARM WITH CATTLE AND SHEEP. WHEN HERMAN TAKES OVER THE BUSINESS IN 1992, HE RUNS DOWN THE CATTLE BUSINESS AND IN 1996 HE FOCUSES COMPLETELY ON SHEEP BREEDING. WITH VISION AND PASSION HE OUTLINES HIS COMPANY’S FUTURE.

Grembergen Broek Beleven is an educational project teaching visitors on foot or by bike something about the Scheldt region by means of educational signs.

erman Verberckmoes tells us his tion requires a lot of mechanized efforts they set up a project with breeds of Hstory about integrated sheep far- and high costs. Fortunately the region sheep for well-deﬁ ned pasture. Nowa- ming. Specially developed breeds of can rely on sheep farmer Herman Ver- days the sheep graze on about 25 ha of sheep not only contribute to an ecolo- berckmoes: an enterprising farmer with grassland owned or leased by Herman gical nature management, but they also a heart for nature. In consultation with and on 45 ha of outer dike in contract injected new life into the walking and ofﬁ cial bodies such as AWZ (a Flemish with AWZ, 10 ha of inner dike via the cycling tourism of the region. public government institution in charge town council of Dendermonde and on of waterways and maritime affairs), 15 ha in nature reserves. Three-yearly Sheep on the banks Aminal (a department of the Flemish contracts provide an economic equilibri- Grembergen is an area of natural beau- Ministry, in charge of environmental, um. Under Herman’s skilful supervision ty, but maintaining the banks of the land, nature and water management) his sheep go for it and they keep the Scheldt and the Durme in good condi- and the town council of Dendermonde, region tidy whilst grazing.

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 30 21-12-2006 20:18:43 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Herman Verberckmoes

The banks are kept tidy by grazing sheep; the parcels are staked out with removable fencing. Under Herman’s skilful supervision his sheep go for it and they keep the region tidy whilst grazing.

What does natural grazing mean? image involves a lot of hard work and to area. Due to e.g. land consolidation, Herman gives us an example: thistles. professional skill. The educational signs parcels of farmland were divided and Instead of cutting thistle fi elds with ma- on the banks tell us about this know-how. rearranged. Herman says it is his mis- chines, he uses a combination of me- But if you have the opportunity, just ask sion to put nature fi rst. His farm shed chanized mowing and natural mowing. the shepherd himself. Inspiringly Herman is an example. He had it built in conse- Before seeding, the seed-buds are cut explains: “Different types of soils require quence of land consolidation. “I wan- by means of machines; the rest is up to different types of pasture. Depending on ted the shed to be in perfect harmony the sheep. Using sheep is cost-effective their characters and the way they pas- with the surrounding nature. The result since mowing costs the authorities half ture, it is determined where which breed was an olive-green shed with a black the normal price and of course Nature should graze. You have e.g. parts of the roof. The roof is oriented to the south- benefi ts as the fauna is kept intact. dikes that are being repaired; there I use east as rain normally comes from the intensive grazing, which means that large south-west. On the east side there is New plans … fl ocks of sheep graze on relatively small an open stable wall. This is the ideal Thanks to the sheep the area is more parcels during six days. The fl ora then is harmony between hygiene and natural open and visitors on foot and by bike left in peace during six weeks. For the elements.” come looking for peace and quiet in this normal parts of the bank, I pick a suitable Although ecological thinking is the mo- oasis. To make the area even more at- breed, which I put to pasture during three tive for this company, Herman also has tractive, the project Grembergen Broek weeks. Finally there is the technique ma- more traditional sources of revenue: Beleven took off. Herman Verberckmoes king use of the sheep to transport the lamb sales, ewes for breeding, rams is closely involved in the project. “A map seed. That is how I try to grow rare plants for slaughtering… Shearing the sheep guides the visitors along the inner dikes. of a certain bank on other parts as well. gives wool, but that he considers being Along the route there are panels with in- This requires intensive supervision. I can a cost rather than an income. formation on the Scheldt region and the easily say that each day I move three of Behind the romance of this special sheep. As happens in many parts of ru- my twelve fl ocks.” profession, there is the reality of hard ral Flanders, unfortunately there also is Which breeds of sheep does Herman work, daring to make choices and look- vandalism and illegal dumping... people have in his stables? There are fi fteen dif- ing for partners. Instead of whistling a with good intentions giving their trim- ferent breeds, of which a large part is little tune in the shadow of a tree on the mings to the sheep without considering typically Flemish: Flemish Sheep, Hout- river banks, Herman Verberckmoes is the risk of poisonous plants.” lander, Heideschaap and Kempisch Hei- always brooding on something new or This does not stop Herman from ma- deschaap. In addition to the indigenous he is busy with his other passion: being king plans for the future. He dreams of breeds he also has foreign breeds such an actor. And where does he draw his an educational sheep centre in coopera- as the Suffolk-Scottish Mule, Mergellan- inspiration from? From the quiet in the tion with the schools. This would make der, Kerry-Hill and Drents Heideschaap. shadow of the tree on the river banks? him less dependent on subsidies in the All of them together make up a fold of And from his energy as entrepreneur. future. 430 ewes. Herman Verberckmoes …ancient knowledge A mission Lomeersstraat 23 People smile when the shepherd and his Continuous economical and institutio- 9200 Grembergen, Belgium Border Collie move the sheep to another nal changes force a farmer to be inno- +32 (0)476 72 83 03 part of the banks. However, the idyllic vative. Shepherds used to go from area [email protected]

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 31 21-12-2006 20:18:59 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Mmm...eetjesland cvba

A label of origin supports the promotional strategy. The label draws attention to the identity and the origin of the product. Mmm… delicious Meetjesland SINT-LAUREINS – THE REGION MEETJESLAND CLEARLY IS AN AGRICULTURAL AREA IN THE PROVINCE OF EAST-FLANDERS WITH A LOT OF HOME PRODUCTION AND FARM STORES. THERE ARE ALSO QUITE SOME FOOD COMPANIES, WHICH PROCESS THE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS OF THE AREA. IN ORDER TO SUPPORT THE SELLING OF PRODUCTS AT HOME AND TO MAINTAIN THE ADDED VALUE ON THE FARMS, THE AGRICULTURAL CENTRE “HET PLATTELANDSCENTRUM MEETJESLAND VZW” SET UP, IN COLLABORATION WITH THE FARMERS, A SUPPORTING STRUCTURE FOR PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT AND JOINT SALES.

et Plattelandscentrum Meetjesland ganization of a structure involving farm products, for which an annual member- Hvzw” is an initiative aiming at the and regional products of the Meetjes- ship fee has to be paid in function of the development of the area. On the one land region, then the development of labour force. In exchange, the producers hand the centre wants to familiarize the an advertising strategy and a promotion have the right to put a label of origin on population with the local agriculture and centre for selling the Meetjesland farm their product. That label draws attention horticulture. On the other hand it sup- and regional products on the market and to the identity and the origin of the prod- ports the development of the regional ﬁ nally the set-up of various distribution uct. The consumer is now sure that the agriculture and horticulture. channels for Meetjesland farm and re- product provides the renowned quality The project concerning the farm and regional products.” of the Meetjesland region. gional products of the Meetjesland re- From the variety of farm and regional gion is coordinated by Luc Feusels, co- The structure: products of the members, they select initiator of the cooperative. “The project selling the products together standard products in order to be able to consists of three parts, which are inex- The organization is available for mem- offer a complete range of standard prod- tricably interrelated. First of all the or- bers-producers of farm and regional ucts, coming from as many producers

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 32 21-12-2006 20:19:13 15 rural entrepreneurs tell their stories Mmm...eetjesland cvba

Producers often lack the know-how and the time for elaborating and developing such a communication strategy. From the variety of farm and regional products of the members, they select standard products in order to be able to offer a complete range o standard products coming from as many producers as possible.

as possible. “To attract the consumers, struction showing the range of products, maybe in the long run they can fi nd work we make specifi c combinations of farm including the products that are not part of in these industries.“ and regional products: standard sets in the standard range. The organization also various price ranges, gift sets for spe- sets up various events, such as specifi c Developing a distribution network cial opportunities, gift-wrappings with demonstration cooking courses, markets It is of major importance to construct sweets or beer. Personalized gift-wrap- for farm and regional products, special a distribution centre. Such a centre is pings can be made on demand.” actions in view of … promoting the farm responsible for collecting the primary and regional products of the Meetjesland products and for processing them into A promotion strategy region. new marketable products. In addition, Thanks to the joint advertising campaign, “Promoting products from the own re- distribution channels are explored and there are more resources and a wider au- gion encourages other entrepreneurs provisioned. This distribution centre em- dience is reached. It is now also possible (tradesmen, companies, farmers, market ploys some lowly-qualifi ed people for to spread advertising: there are general gardeners) to develop new regional and/or handling the products. brochures and brochures for special occa- farm products. So this project also creates “Thanks to the creation of an own re- sions for as many target groups as possi- an economic surplus value for these com- gional label with own products and an ble. For tourists there are brochures in var- panies. New for the Meetjesland region own advertising campaign, we give the ious languages, but there are also specifi c is to have the farm and regional products food industry in the Meetjesland region brochures meant for public authorities, processed by long-term unemployed peo- an own identity and structure. Producers libraries, restaurants, catering companies ple. In that way they become acquainted often lack the know-how and the time and delicatessen. A website is under con- with the agricultural and food sector and for elaborating and developing such a communication strategy. Furthermore, Come and taste the Meetjesland region the return is mainly for the farm itself.” The non-profi t organization “Plattelandscentrum Meetjesland vzw” wants to pro- Mmm…Delicious Meetjesland! mote the agriculture and horticulture in the Meetjesland region so that they become widely known. As part of this promotion campaign they organize cultural, Mmm...eetjesland cvba recreational and educational activities to boost the region. The organization also Leemweg 24 supplies objective information on the modern agriculture and horticulture and on 9980 Sint-Laureins, Belgium the relation to the countryside by setting up projects relating to rural development. +32 (0)9 379 78 37 You can visit the centre every Thursday and Friday afternoon from 13:00 till 16:30. www.plattelandscentrum.be Group visits can always be booked. You will learn about agriculture and the coun- [email protected] tryside and you can taste the rich variety of regional and farm products. Before you know it, you fi nd yourself on a market for farm and regional products or in the middle of an interesting course. All relevant information on the website.

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 33 21-12-2006 20:20:10 Information Province of East Flanders Department of Agriculture and Horticulture +32 (0)9 267 86 79 [email protected] www.oost-vlaanderen.be www.praxisnetwork.net

Published by the Executive Board of the Province of East Flanders in co-operation with the Chamber of Agriculture for East Flanders Responsible : Alexander Vercamer, member of the Provincial Executive Board in charge of Agriculture and Countryside Marc De Buck, member of the Provincial Executive Board in charge of Economics and External Relations Written by Didier Huygens, Santina Driesen, Luc Vande Ryse and Katrien De Merlier Copywriting: Nele Dhaese Printed by Geers Offset D/2006/5139/26 Publication: January 2007 Responsible Publisher : A. De Smet, p.a. Gouvernementstraat 1, 9000 Gent - Belgium

Thanks to the 15 rural entrepeneurs for telling their story!

PRAXIS-2007-EN.indd 34 21-12-2006 20:20:37